Photo by Madison Kirkman Sumer Daiza

PLASTIC SURGEON

Name of medical school:
University of Arizona College of Medicine

Years in practice:
9

Who is your personal health care hero?
Dr. David Folkestad, my pediatrician.

“I decided to become a doctor when...”
I was inspired by my pediatrician, Dr. David Folkestad, at the young age of 3.

What made you choose plastic surgery in particular?
It is a rewarding career that allows me to positively change people’s lives, both mentally and physically.

“If I weren’t a doctor, I’d be...”
I would start an integrative health and wellness center focusing on nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyles for the mind and body.

“When I’m not working, I like to...”
Practice yoga, run, hike and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Traveling is next on my list.

Name a personal habit, vice or activity of YOURS that you would advise yourself NOT to do if you were your own doctor.
Don’t make chocolate 90 percent of your diet.

What’s the best thing you ever did for your own health?
I maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise.

If you could change one thing about the U.S. health care system, what would it be?
Provide comprehensive health care for everyone, with a focus on prevention and healthy lifestyles.

What innovation, invention or new technique would you most like to see in the medical field in the next 10 years?
More research on tissue engineering to restore form and function of diseased human tissue.

What’s the most common misconception about plastic surgery?
Some people still think plastic surgery is not “real” surgery and is only about vanity. The truth is, plastic surgery encompasses many aspects to restore form and function and allow people to live better and happier lives.

Nip/Tuck. Thumbs up or down? Why?
Thumbs down – not an accurate portrayal of real-life plastic surgery.